to stretch a net (in a sports game or for covering sth)
HSK 2, v, rank #5467, Easy
上网
shàngwǎng
to be netted (of fish)
HSK 2, v, rank #5467, Easy
上网
shàngwǎng
to go online
HSK 2, unknown, rank #5467, Easy
上网
shàngwǎng
to connect to the Internet
HSK 2, unknown, rank #5467, Easy
上网
shàngwǎng
(of a document etc) to be uploaded to the Internet
HSK 2, unknown, rank #5467, Easy
上网
shàngwǎng
(tennis, volleyball etc) to move in close to the net
HSK 2, unknown, rank #5467, Easy
shàngwǎng(shang4wang3) T4
1to be on the Internet
2to stretch a net (in a sports game or for covering sth)
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March 24, 2026
上网(上網)shàngwǎng(shang4wang3)
The term '上网' (shàngwǎng) means 'to go online' or 'to access the Internet.' It is commonly used when discussing activities like browsing websites, using social media, or searching for information. The phrase is essential for understanding conversations about technology and digital life in modern Chinese society.
Frequency#5467DifficultyEasy
Cultural Note
In China, '上网' has become a central part of daily life, especially among younger generations. Internet usage is prevalent for everything from socializing on platforms like WeChat to shopping on Taobao, reflecting the country's rapid digital transformation.
Memory Tip
Imagine climbing (上, shàng) a tall mountain (网, wǎng) made of interconnected web-like pathways that lead you to the vast world of the Internet. Visualize yourself reaching the summit, where you can access information from anywhere, like a spider on its web!
Meanings of 上网
shàngwǎng(shang4wang3)
1to be on the Internet
2to stretch a net (in a sports game or for covering sth)
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 上网
上网Simplified
上網Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#5467Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L3HSK 3.0L2ElementaryTOCFLL1HSKKL1CEFRA1
Podcast: 上网
Podcast: 上网
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AI Study Notes for 上网
Quick Contrast
上网 (shàngwǎng) vs 上线 (shàngxiàn): use 上网 for general internet access, whereas 上线 specifically refers to going online or becoming active on a specific platform.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine climbing (上, shàng) a tall mountain (网, wǎng) made of interconnected web-like pathways that lead you to the vast world of the Internet. Visualize yourself reaching the summit, where you can access information from anywhere, like a spider on its web!
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tones: '上' (shàng) is the fourth tone, and '网' (wǎng) is the third tone. A common mistake is using '上' with the wrong context, such as saying '上手机' instead of '用手机' (to use a mobile phone). Remember that '上网' is informal; in formal contexts, you might say '连接互联网' (to connect to the Internet).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 3 word, '上网' connects well with other technology-related vocabulary, such as '电脑' (computer) and '软件' (software). Focus on sentences that incorporate this phrase to enhance your ability to discuss digital topics and daily activities online.
Cultural Note
In China, '上网' has become a central part of daily life, especially among younger generations. Internet usage is prevalent for everything from socializing on platforms like WeChat to shopping on Taobao, reflecting the country's rapid digital transformation.
Common Mistakes
Some learners mistakenly say '上互联网' instead of '上网,' which sounds unnatural. The correct form '上网' is used specifically for going online and accessing the Internet.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 上网
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Grammar Patterns of 上网
上网 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 7 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Ordinarily I like watching TV, surfing online and rambling the park.
2
铺上网眼垫纸，将蛋糕摆得诱人些。
pū shàng wǎng yǎn diàn zhǐ， ， jiāng dàn gāo bǎi dé yòu rén。
Set out the cakes attractively, using lacy doilies.
Cultural Notes for 上网
🏮Cultural insight
In China, '上网' has become a central part of daily life, especially among younger generations. Internet usage is prevalent for everything from socializing on platforms like WeChat to shopping on Taobao, reflecting the country's rapid digital transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions about 上网
'我每天都上网学习' (I go online to study every day).
Yes, it can also refer to uploading documents or engaging in online meetings.
'上网' is considered informal, so it's best used in casual conversations.
